First Step on Linoleum

The quiet air felt solid around me. Outside the tall glass, night had settled in. I took my time, keeping my posture square. Then, slowly, I shifted my weight onto the front of my right sneaker. A tiny squeak broke against the floor. I didn't rush. I leaned slightly forward and nudged the wooden edge of the padded bench right beside my foot. The solid resistance met my touch, firm and real. I paused, letting the silence settle again, standing steady right where I began.